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HELP SAVE LIVES —
REPORT INTOXICATED DRIVERS
If we are to continue to reduce the number of alcohol-related deaths on our highways, citizen-support is a must. Just as many neighborhoods have formed neighborhood watch programs to help state and local police reduce criminal activity, police also need your help to reduce the number of drunk drivers on the highway.
PHONE 911 OR CB CHANNEL 9
When you make contact with the police, provide them with the follow-ing information:
a. Your location and the location of the suspected drunk driver, his direction of travel and the time observed.
b. The make and color of the vehicle and the license plate number. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO STOP THE OTHER DRIVER!
During 2005, in Delaware there were
18,681 traffic crashes, resulting in
133 people killed and
8,367 people injured.
HOURS AT ALL OFFICES
8:00 AM to 4:30 PM – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday
12:00 Noon to 8:00 PM on Wednesdays
This publication is available in microfiche from the Bureau of Archives
and Records. Hall of Records, P.O. Box 1401, Dover, Delaware 19903
INFORMATION PHONES
Wilmington: 434-3200
Dover: 744-2500
New Castle: 326-5000
Georgetown: 853-1000
M A I L I N G A D D R E S S E S
WILMINGTON DMV 2230 Hessler Blvd. New Castle, DE 19720 NEW CASTLE DMV Airport/Churchmans Rd. New Castle, DE 19720 DOVER DMV P.O. Box 698 Dover, DE 19903 GEORGETOWN DMV P.O. Box 399 Georgetown, DE 19947LOCATIONS
(Please Do Not Use for Mail)
• Greater Wilmington DMV at Minquadale is immediately South of the
Rt. 13 and I-495 Interchange. Turn from Rt. 13 into Hessler Boulevard
which leads straight into DMV.
• New Castle DMV is on Airport Rd., West of the Wilmington Airport, just
South of Churchman and Airport Roads intersection.
• Georgetown DMV is on 23737 DuPont Blvd., Northbound of Route 113,
just South of the Department of Transportation building.
• Dover DMV is on Transportation Circle, behind the DELDOT building on
Rt. 113, just South of the Rt. 13 and 113 split.
MESSAGE FOR DELAWARE DRIVERS
The privilege of driving a motor vehicle in Delaware is a serious responsibility. This manual has been prepared to help the motorist prepare for and cope with the challenges of negotiating Delaware’s highways. For your safety, we strongly encourage you to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations contained in this manual.
The Division of Motor Vehicles also stands ready to assist the Delaware motorist. Second only to our commitment to your safety, the Division’s goal is to provide fast, efficient, and high-quality customer service in all driving-related areas. Our trained per-sonnel at facilities throughout the State are ready to serve.
Most importantly, we urge you to drive carefully, courteously, soberly and defen-sively, and remember to fasten your seat belts. On behalf of the State of Delaware we wish you many years of safe driving.
Carolann Wicks Jennifer L. Cohan
Secretary Director
Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles
Corrections, suggestions, or recommendations
to this manual may be addressed to:
Chief of Driver Services
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 698
Dover, DE 19903
DELAWARE DRIVER’S MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTION ONE Page
Introduction . . . 10
Definitions. . . 10
Motor Vehicle Fees. . . 12
SECTION TWO - DRIVER LICENSE INFORMATION DRIVER LICENSE REQUIREMENTS Exemptions From Holding A Delaware Driver License . . . 14
Who May Not Be Licensed . . . 14
APPLYING FOR A LICENSE How Do I Get A License . . . 14
General Requirements for All Driver License and ID Card Applicants . . . . 15
Graduated Driver License For First Time Applicants Under Age 18 . . . 18
Requirements For First Time Applicants Over Age 18 . . . 19
Transfer Of Licenses From Other Jurisdictions Into Delaware (over 18) . . . 20
Transfer Of Licenses From Other Jurisdictions Into Delaware (under 18) . . 20
License Renewal. . . 20
Permanent License Renewal . . . 21
Exchange Student Licensing Procedures. . . 21
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Restricted License . . . 21
Duplicate License. . . 21
Name Change . . . 22
Address Change . . . 22
Identification (ID) Card . . . 22
Voter Registration . . . 22
Megan’s Law/Sex Offenders . . . 23
Mandatory Disclosure Of Social Security Numbers . . . 23
Selective Service System Registration . . . 23
Organ And Tissue Donor Program . . . 23
DRIVER LICENSE CLASSIFICATIONS Class D Operator’s License . . . 24
Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL) . . . 24
CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (Learner’s Permit) . . . 24
CDL Class A License . . . 25
CDL Class B License . . . 25
CDL Class C License. . . 25
NON - CDL Class A License . . . 25
NON - CDL Class B License . . . 25
Driver Education Learner’s Permit . . . 25
Level I Learner’s Permit . . . 25
Temporary License. . . 25
Conditional, Occupational, And Hardship Licenses . . . 25
Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Endorsement/License . . . 25
ENDORSEMENTS Motorcycle Endorsement . . . 25
Motorcycle Learner Permit. . . 26
Taxi Endorsement . . . 26
THE DRIVER EXAMINATION Vision Screening . . . 27
Highway Sign And Signal Test . . . 27
Rules Of The Road Test. . . 28
Road Test . . . 28
Motor Vehicle To Be Driven During Road Test . . . 28
When You Must Be Accompanied By A Licensed Driver . . . 28
Preparation For The Driver Examination . . . 29
MEDICAL INFORMATION AND REPORTING Self-Reporting Of Medical Conditions . . . 29
Special Examinations . . . 29
Mandatory Medical Reporting. . . 29
Medical Surrender . . . 30
LICENSE REVOCATION & SUSPENSION Mandatory Revocations . . . 30
Habitual Offender Revocation . . . 30
Suspension Of A Driver License . . . 31
Child Support Delinquency. . . 32
School Expulsion . . . 32
Driving During Suspension Or Revocation . . . 32
DRIVER IMPROVEMENT PROBLEM DRIVER PROGRAM Purpose . . . 32
Delaware Point System . . . 33
Calculated Points . . . 33
Driver Improvement Problem Driver Program Actions . . . 33
Point Credit . . . 34
Serious Speeding Violations . . . 34
Occupational License. . . 34
Driving During Suspension Or Revocation . . . 34
Aggressive Driving . . . 35
Approved Behavioral Modification/Attitudinal Driving Courses . . . 35
Defensive Driving Courses . . . 35
Approved Defensive Driving Course Providers . . . 36
IMPAIRED DRIVING Drinking And Driving . . . 37
Drinking And Blood Alcohol Concentration . . . 37
Crash Risk . . . 38
If You Drink, When Can You Drive . . . 38
Drugs Combined With Alcohol. . . 39
Distracted Driver . . . 39
Drowsy Driver . . . 40
DELAWARE DRINKING AND DRIVING LAWS GENERAL LAW PROVISIONS General Law Provisons . . . 41
Drinking While Driving Prohibited . . . 41
Driving Under The Influence . . . 41
Implied Consent Law . . . 41
Ignition Interlock Device Programs . . . 41
The Law Pertaining To A Juvenile Driving While Under The Influence . . . 42
Underage Consumption Or Possession . . . 42
Other Factors To Be Considered Before You Drink And Drive . . . 42
DELAWARE SPECIFIC PENALTIES AND PROCEDURES Administrative Procedures And Penalties . . . 42
Driving Under The Influence (DUI) Penalties For A First Offense . . . 43
First Offense Election . . . 43
First Offense Election – Ignition Interlock (FOE-IID) Diversion . . . 44
DUI Penalties For A Second Offense . . . 44
DUI Penalties For Third Offense. . . 44
DUI Penalties For Fourth or Further Subsequent Offense . . . 44
Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Program. . . 45
SECTION THREE - VEHICLE EQUIPMENT, TITLES, REGISTRATION, AND INSURANCE MOTOR VEHICLE EQUIPMENT Required Equipment . . . 46
Additional Equipment . . . 47
Prohibited Equipment . . . 47
Using Headlights . . . 48
Using Safety Belts And Child Restraints . . . 48
HOW TO TITLE/REGISTER YOUR VEHICLE Liability Insurance, Financial Responsibility And Penalty - Step 1. . . 48
Vehicle Inspection - Step 2. . . 49
Title - Step 3 . . . 50
Requirement For Applicants Under 18 Years Of Age . . . 51
Renewing Registration . . . 51
Change Of Address . . . 52
Change Of Name . . . 52
Out-Of-State Inspections . . . 52
Responsibility Of Owner . . . 52
SECTION FOUR - RULES OF THE ROAD SIGNALS AND SIGNS Right-Of-Way . . . 53
Signals And Signs. . . 53
Red Light Reinforcement Program . . . 53
Understanding Traffic Signals . . . 53
For All Drivers And Bike Riders . . . 53
Arrows . . . 54
Pedestrian Signals . . . 56
Flashing Lights . . . 56
Highway Signs . . . 56
Other Regulatory Signs . . . 57
Other Warning Signs . . . 58
WORK ZONES When Approaching Or Driving Through A Work Zone . . . 60
Regulatory Signs . . . 60
Warning Signs . . . 61
Guiding Or Channelizing Devices . . . 61
Flashing Arrow Panels . . . 61
Flaggers . . . 61
Overhead Lane Signals . . . 62
Guide Signs . . . 62
SOME IMPORTANT DELAWARE LAWS
Signaling . . . 62
Overtaking (Passing) Other Vehicles . . . 62
Responding To Approaching Emergency Vehicles . . . 63
Approaching Stationary Emergency Vehicles . . . 63
TRAFFIC CONTROL LAWS Purpose Of Traffic Laws . . . 63
Traffic Laws Apply To Everyone . . . 63
General Laws . . . 63
Highway-Rail Intersection Signs And Signals . . . 63
Pavement Markings . . . 64
Other Lane Controls . . . 65
Reversible Lanes . . . 65
Reserved Lanes . . . 65
Shared Center Lane . . . 66
General Rules . . . 66
Right-Of-Way . . . 67
Stopping For School Buses . . . 68
PARKING General Parking Rules . . . 69
Stopping And Parking Violations . . . 71
SPEED General Speed Restriction . . . 72
Speed Limits . . . 72
Minimum Speed . . . 72
Speed Signs . . . 72
OTHER HIGHWAY USERS Pedestrians . . . 73
Your Responsibility As A Driver. . . 73
Your Responsibility As A Pedestrian. . . 73
Who Must Yield To Pedestrians . . . 74
Bicycles And Bicycling . . . 74
The Motorist And The Bicyclist . . . 74
The Parent Of The Youthful Bicyclist . . . 75
The Adult Bicyclist . . . 75
Sharing The Road With Motorcycles . . . 76
Motorcycle Operation And License Endorsements . . . 77
Mopeds And Tripeds . . . 77
OHV - (Off Highway Vehicles) . . . 78
Animal Riders And Animal Drivers . . . 78
Farm Tractors And Equipment, Road Machinery, And Construction Equipment . . . 78
Who Must Not Use A Highway . . . 78
Slow-Moving Vehicles . . . 79
Sharing The Road With A Truck . . . 79
Passing . . . 79
Near A Truck No-Zone . . . 79
Backing Accidents . . . 80
SECTION FIVE - DRIVING SKILLS AND SAFETY TIPS BEFORE YOU DRIVE
Trip Planning . . . 83
Check The Vehicle . . . 83
Clean Glass Surfaces . . . 85
Adjust Seat And Mirrors . . . 85
Use Safety Belts . . . 85
Use Child Restraints . . . 86
Proper Restraint Of Child . . . 86
If You Can’t Afford A Child Safety Seat . . . 87
Bad Information . . . 87 BASIC DRIVING Starting . . . 88 Accelerating . . . 88 Steering . . . 88 Speeding . . . 89 Stopping . . . 89 Braking . . . 89 Seeing Well . . . 89 Scanning . . . 90
Using Your Lights . . . 92
COMMUNICATING Letting Others Know You Are There . . . 93
Letting Others Know What You Are Doing . . . 95
ADJUSTING SPEED Adjusting To Road Conditions . . . 96
Adjusting To Traffic . . . 97
NIGHT DRIVING. . . 98
DRIVE DEFENSIVELY. . . 98
HOW WELL CAN YOU SEE? Darkness . . . 99
Rain, Fog, Or Snow . . . 99
Hills And Curves . . . 99
Parked Vehicles . . . 99 Sight-Distance Rule . . . 99 Speed Limits . . . 100 SHARING SPACE Space Ahead . . . 100 Space Behind . . . 101
Space To The Side . . . 101
Space To Merge . . . 102
Space To Cross or Enter . . . 102
Space To Pass . . . 103
Space For Special Situations . . . 104
BE IN SHAPE TO DRIVE Vision . . . 105
Hearing . . . 105
Fatigue . . . 106
Health . . . 106
Emotions . . . 107
EMERGENCIES. . . 107
VEHICLE EMERGENCIES Steering Wheel Locking Device . . . 107
Brake Failure . . . 107
Running Off The Pavement. . . 108
Tire Blowout . . . 108
Power Failure . . . 108
Headlight Failure . . . 108
Gas Pedal Sticks . . . 108
Fire . . . 109
Stalling On Railroad Tracks . . . 109
AVOIDING COLLISIONS Stopping Quickly . . . 109
Turning Quickly . . . 109
Speeding Up . . . 110
Dealing With Skids . . . 110
PROTECT YOURSELF IN COLLISIONS Hit From The Rear . . . 110
Hit From The Side . . . 111
Hit From The Front . . . 111
CRASHES/ACCIDENTS At The Accident Scene. . . 111
If Someone Is Injured . . . 111
Reporting Accidents. . . 112
INDEX. . . 116
Introduction
This manual gives you information on safe driving rules and practices to help you become a safe driver. Be sure to read the manual carefully. Unless you know the information in this manual, you cannot pass our knowledge tests. This manual attempts to cover the major ele-ments of Delaware law; however, it cannot cover all parts of federal or State law. If a conflict exists, then the actual code or legislation will always take precedence.
This manual will provide information needed to drive a passenger vehicle. If you want a license to drive a commercial motor vehicle, you should read the Commercial Driver Manual. If you want an endorsement to drive a motorcycle, you should read the Motorcycle Operator Manual.
If you have a disability and need special accommodation in order to take a written test, please call and make an appointment prior to coming to a DMV site: in New Castle call 326-5005; in Wilmington call 434-3204; in Dover call 744-2505; and in Georgetown call 853-1004. Audio tests (with headphones) are available upon request.
Definitions
“Bicycle” includes certain class of vehicles which are exclusively human-powered by means of
foot pedals. The term bicycle also includes a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully opera-ble pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 m.p.h.
“Blue Certificate” means the “Driver Education Certificate,” see below.
“Convicted” means having been found guilty in a court of law of a violation of the motor
vehicle laws, forfeiture of bail bond, or a plea of guilty.
“Commercial Driver License (CDL)” means the license drivers required in order to drive a
Commercial Motor Vehicle.
“Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)” means, for purposes of Delaware licensing, a motor
vehicle weighing, rated or registered over 26,000 pounds, a vehicle designed to carry 16 or more occupants (including the driver), or a vehicle required to be placarded for carrying Haz-ardous Material. Definitions and requirements for commercial vehicles in interstate com-merce may differ and are covered in Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.
“Department” means the Department of Transportation, acting directly or through its duly
authorized officers and agents.
“Divided Highway” means any highway divided into two or more roadways by an
inter-vening space, physical barrier, or clearly indicated dividing section so constructed as to impede vehicular traffic.
“Division” means the Division of Motor Vehicles.
“Driver” includes anyone who is in actual physical control of a motor vehicle.
“Driver Education Certificate” means the certificate presented to students who successfully
complete a Delaware Department of Education approved Driver Education course. The cer-tificate must meet all Department of Education criteria to be valid. Commonly referred to as the “Blue Certificate.”
“Express Highway” means a State or Interstate highway especially designed for through traffic. “Highway” means the entire width between boundary lines of every road open to public
vehicular traffic, but does not include roads owned by private individuals or by institutions.
“Highway-Rail Intersection” means the area common to one or more highways intersecting
with, or crossing, one or more railroad tracks. You may also be familiar with highway-rail inter-sections being referred to as highway-rail grade crossings, grade crossings or railroad crossings.
“Intersection” means the area common to two or more highways that meet whether or not
one highway crosses another.
SECTION ONE
“License” means any type of license under which the holder has the privilege of driving a
motor vehicle.
“Minibike” means any motor-driven cycle which has a wheel rim size less than 10 inches,
or is less than 40 inches long from hub to hub, or has an engine of less than 45 cubic centimeter displacement, or has a seat less than 25 inches above the ground.
“Moped” means a pedal or a non-pedal bicycle having two wheels, either of which is over ten
inches in a maximum diameter, and having a motor characterized in that the maximum pis-ton displacement is less than 55 cc. Rated at no more than 2.7 brake horse power and the maximum speed does not exceed 25 m.p.h.
“Motorcycle” includes any motor vehicle designed to travel on not more than three wheels,
except tractors and minibikes and excepting electric personal assistive mobility devices (EAPMD).
“Motor Vehicle” includes any self-propelled vehicle designed to operate on a roadway except
farm tractors and OHVs.
“Must” means an action or practice required by law.
“NDR” means National Driver Register (NDR), which is a computerized database of
infor-mation about drivers who have had their licenses suspended or revoked, or who have been convicted of serious traffic violations. Motor vehicle agencies use NDR to avoid issuing licenses to problem drivers. You may call NDR at 202-366-4800.
“O.H.V.” means Off-Highway-Vehicle, a motor-driven vehicle capable of cross-country
travel without benefit of a road or trail on or over land, snow, ice, marsh, swampland or other natural terrain.
“Owner” means a person who holds the legal title of a vehicle or a person who is purchasing
a vehicle on time and has immediate right of possession.
“Railroad Crossing” means “Highway-Rail Intersection” as defined above.
“Registration” means the registration certificate (card) and the registration plate (tag). “Road” as used herein has the same meaning as highway.
“Roadway” means that portion of the highway improved, designed, or ordinarily used for
vehicular traffic excluding the shoulder.
“Safety Zone” means an area officially set aside within a highway for exclusive use of
pedes-trians and so marked.
“School Bus” means every motor vehicle painted with national school bus chrome yellow,
and which has the words “SCHOOL BUS” displayed on the vehicle.
“Secretary” means the Secretary of the Department of Transportation of this State. “Should” means a recommended action or practice not required by law.
“Street” as used herein means a highway in a city or a suburban district.
“Three-point turn” is a maneuver to turn a vehicle 180 degrees on a narrow street. It is
accomplished by turning sharply to the left almost to curb, backing to right almost to the other curb, and finally turning to the right side of the roadway in the direction opposite to that at start (sometimes called “turnabout”).
“Trailer” means any vehicle without motor power designed to carry property or passengers
and to be drawn by a motor vehicle.
“Triped” means a pedal or a non-pedal cycle having three wheels, any of which is over ten
inches in maximum diameter, and having a motor, characterized in that maximum displace-ment is less than 55 cc., rated or no more than 2.7 brake horsepower, and that maximum speed does not exceed 25 miles per hour.
“Vehicle” means every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be
transported or drawn upon a public highway, excepting devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks; and excepting electric trackless trolley coaches, electric personal assistive mobility devices, and excepting OHVs.
Registration Fees Cars Renewals (yearly) 40.00 Late Renewals 10.00 Temporary Tag 10.00 Temporary Permit 10.00 Courtesy Inspection 4.00 Vanity Plate (yearly) 40.00 Handicap Placard No Charge
Motorcycle 15.00 Environmental Specialty Plate (one-time) 35.00 Animal Welfare Plate (one-time) 50.00 Farmland Preservation Plate (one-time) 50.00
Farm Trucks (yearly)
5,000 pounds or less 40.00 Greater than 5,000 pounds 3.80* (*Price for each 1,000 pounds over 5,000)
Recreational Vehicles (yearly) 5,000 pounds or less 40.00 Greater than 5,000 pounds 6.40* (*Price for each 1,000 pounds over 5,000)
Trailers (yearly)
0 - 1,000 pounds 15.00 1,001 - 2,000 pounds 20.00 2,001 - 5,000 pounds 40.00 For each 1,000 pounds
over 5,000 pounds 18.00
Commercial Vehicles Over 5,000 Pounds (yearly) 5,000 pounds or less 40.00 For each 1,000 pounds
over 5,000 pounds 18.00
MOTOR VEHICLE FEES
Driver License Fees
Class D 25.00
Renewal Class D 25.00 Renewal Permanent* 15.00 All CDL Licenses 30.00 CDL Each Additional Endorsement 5.00 Non-CDL Class A/B 25.00 Motorcycle Endorsement 8.00 Taxi Endorsement 3.45 Late Renewal Fee 1.15 Duplicate Driver License 10.00 Change of Address No Charge Change of Name 1.15 Photo Identification Card 20.00 Duplicate Photo ID Card 5.00 Driver License Record 15.00 Certified DL Record Affidavit 20.00 DL Suspension Reinstatement 25.00 DL Revocation Reinstatement 143.75
Uninsured Motorist Fees
Penalty Fee for
Uninsured Motorist 100.00* (*Plus $5.00 Per Day After 31st Day
From Mailing Date of Notice)
DL Suspension Reinstatement 25.00 Vehicle Registration Reinstatement 50.00
DMV will accept personal checks, however if you present an uncollectible check, a penalty fee of $25.00 is charged. If the original amount plus the penalty fee is not paid within 10 days, your driver’s license will be suspended. *Effective August 1, 2007, no more new per-manent driver licenses shall be issued.
Duplicates
License Plate with Sticker 6.00 License Plate without Sticker 5.00 Validation Sticker 1.00 Dealer License Plate 6.00 Registration Card 2.00 Sample License Plate 7.00 Environmental/Animal
Welfare License Plate 10.00 Farmland Preservation Plate 10.00
Driver’s License fees also include the cost of learner’s permits (Motorcycle, Class D, and CDL), that proceed the issuance of the licenses.
Titles*
Title (with Lien) 35.00 Title (without Lien) 25.00 Title (Duplicate) 25.00 Vehicle Record 15.00 Certified Vehicle Affidavit 20.00 Retain Tag Feea 10.00
Change Tag Service Feea 15.00 Document Fee (Minimum)b 8.00
a - Excludes Title Fee
b - Calculated as 3.75 percent of the purchase price or NADA book value, whichever is greater.
* For More Information Please Contact the DMV Website at www.dmv.de.gov
MOTOR VEHICLE FEES
DMV accepts cash, check, and credit card payments (Visa, MasterCard) with proper identification.
NOTE
Delaware law allows a vehicle owner who trades in a Delaware-titled vehicle, when purchas-ing another vehicle, to deduct the value of the trade-in vehicle from the purchase price of the new vehicle. Certain limitations apply to this credit. Refer to the Trade-In Credit Section of the Division of Motor Vehicles website at www.dmv.de.gov/.
NOTE
Delaware law allows a vehicle owner a credit on a sales tax, transfer tax, or some similar levy paid to another state on the purchase of a vehicle within 90 days prior to registering the vehi-cle in Delaware. The 90-day rule is strictly enforced.
NOTE
Delaware law allows the Division to charge a reasonable fee not to exceed $25 to any person presenting a payment that is returned as uncollectible (i.e., bounced check or bad credit card). The Division will send notification by certified mail to the last known address of the individual presenting the uncollectible payment and allow 10 days to furnish payment. If payment is not received within 10 days following the date of mailing of such certified mail, the Division shall forthwith suspend the individual’s driver license or vehicle registration until payment has been paid in full.
DRIVER LICENSE INFORMATION
DRIVER LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
If you operate a motor vehicle on public roadways in Delaware you are required to have a dri-ver license, and you must carry it with you. You are required to obtain a Delaware dridri-ver license within 60 days after becoming a bona fide Delaware resident.
Exemptions From Holding A Delaware Driver License
1. Individuals while driving or operating a road roller, road machinery or farm tractor or implement of husbandry temporarily on a highway.
2. Nonresident operators, over the age of sixteen (16) years, currently licensed in their home state or country. The license must be in the driver’s possession.
3. Members of the Armed Forces of the United States who are serving on active duty and any dependent of the member if they possess a valid driver license from their state of domicile.
Who May Not Be Licensed
The law does not permit the Division of Motor Vehicles to issue a driver license when: 1. You are less than the required age for a specific license or endorsement.
2. You are under the age of 18 and have not completed a Delaware Department of Education approved course in driver education.
3. You are under the age of 18 and cannot obtain the required signature of consent on your application (usually parent, court-appointed custodian, or guardian).
4. Your license or driving privileges are suspended or revoked in any jurisdiction.
5. You are not a bona fide resident of Delaware or you do not have a social security number. 6. You do not understand road signs in English.
7. You are physically or mentally unable to drive safely. If you are subject to losses of con-sciousness from diseases of the central nervous system, you must furnish the Division a written certification by your family physician that your infirmity is under sufficient con-trol to permit you to drive a motor vehicle safely.
8. You are determined to be a habitual drunkard or to be addicted to the use of narcotic drugs.
9. You are unable to show you are in the United States legally.
10.Your personal information differs from information from other agencies (e.g., different dates of birth, different names, different Social Security numbers, different U.S. Entry dates, different addresses, etc.).
APPLYING FOR A LICENSE
How Do I Get A License?
You must apply in person at one of the offices of the Division of Motor Vehicles in Wilmington, New Castle, Dover, or Georgetown. Addresses of these offices are listed on the outside back cover of this manual.
SECTION TWO
SECTION TW
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL DRIVER LICENSE
AND IDENTIFICATION CARD APPLICANTS
Ineligible Immigration Status
Those applicants who are legally in the United States under the following immigration status or holding invalid or expired documents are not eligible for a Delaware-issued driver license or identification card, even if they have established residency in this State: • Those with invalid or expired immigration or passport documents.
• Those I-94 holders without a valid INS or USCIS stamp.
• Immigration status A-1. Ambassador, public minister, career diplomatic or consular officer and dependents are ineligible, because an "A" status may only be issued a driver's license from the United States State Department.
• Immigration status A-2 for other foreign government officials or employees and depen-dents unless they are foreign military official and/or their dependepen-dents. Foreign military members and their dependents must provide a valid passport, I-94, visa, or assignment orders to be eligible.
• Immigration status B-1. Visitor for business. • Immigration status B-2. Visitor for pleasure (tourist.)
• Immigration status C-1. Alien in transit through the United States.
• Immigration status C-2. Alien in transit to United Nations Headquarters district. Travel limited to 25 miles radius of Columbus Circle in New York.
• Immigration status C-3. Foreign government official coming to the United Nations, dependents, attendants, servants, or other personal employees of official in transit through United States.
• Immigration status D-1. Alien crew members.
• Immigration status G-1. Resident representative of a foreign government to an interna-tional organization, plus staff and dependents.
• Immigration status WB. Visitor for business (visa waiver program.)
• Immigration status WT. Visitor for pleasure (tourist in visa waiver (program.) • Attached unexpired temporary I-551 visa.
• Border Crossing cards
The Division must verify all non-citizen applicants legal status and authorized length of stay in the United States upon the initial issuance of a driver's license (including out-of-state license transfers) and upon license renewal therefore, non-citizens must present their immi-gration documents. United States citizens should provide a U.S. certified birth certificate, valid, unexpired U.S. passport, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of
Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship.
The expiration date on driver licenses and identification cards must not exceed the period of time non-citizens are authorized in the United States. This ensures that State-issued iden-tification documents are not valid should non-citizens overstay their authorized visit to this country. The Division will verify the source document to ensure it is genuine and unaltered and confirm by electronic means that the immigration document is valid.
Non-citizens must provide USCIS or INS immigration documents containing either an Alien Registration Number or I-94 Number which can be verified electronically through the Department of Homeland Security's Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements System (SAVE). The applicant's legal status and authorized length of stay will be primarily determined through SAVE. The following documents can be used to determine legal status and authorized length of stay:
All drivers must sign a driver license application and answer the appropriate questions on that form. Those applicants who are licensed in another state must surrender their license from the other state. If eligible for a Social Security Number, it must be provided.
Most driver licenses will be issued for a period of five (5) years from the driver’s last birthday. The fee for the five-year license is $25.00 and certain endorsements cost additional fees. If the learner’s per-mit was valid at the time of the examination and is returned, there are no additional fees. The fee for a CDL license is $30.00. It is illegal to drive if your license has expired. The Division is required by law to collect an additional $1.15 when renewing an expired license.
Each driver must pass an eye-screening examination. Some applicants may be referred to their eye doctor or physician for additional medical tests if they have a medical or mental condition that may interfere with their ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
Every driver license applicant is subject to a written and road skills test.
U.S. Citizenship - Expiration date - 5 year Drivers License or 4 year ID card
• Valid, unexpired U.S. passport
• Certified copy of a birth certificate filed with a State Office of Vital Statistics or equivalent agency in the individual's state of birth
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) issued by the U.S. Department of State, Form FS-240, DS-1350, or FS-545
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by DHS, Form N-550 or Form N-570 • Certificate of Citizenship, Form N-560 or Form N-561, issued by DHS
Permanent Resident Immigrant - Expiration date - 5 year license or 4 year ID card. Alien Registration Number mandatory. Do not issue document without SAVE
verification: refer applicant to the USCIS to resolve mismatch conditions.
• Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) issued by DHS or INS • Valid, unexpired foreign passport with visa stamped "processed for I-551"
Non-immigrant/Temporary - Expiration date limited by authorized stay in U.S. Verify through SAVE. We can not issue document without SAVE vertification: refer applicant to the USCIS to resolve mismatch conditions. We will use a one year expiration date when immigration records show "indefinite" or "duration of status" for period of authorized stay. Form I-94 Number mandatory except when Alien Registration Number available (refugee, asylee, parolee).
• Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) with conditions (2 year limit) contains Alien Registration Number (mandatory for SAVE verification)
• Non-immigrant visa, Arrival-Departure Record, Form I-94 with valid unexpired passport and visa or I-94W for the Visa Waiver Program
• Students. Foreign students having non-immigrant F-1/F-2 or M-1 visa classification should have an I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status form along with their unexpired foreign passport and I-94 card. J-1/J-2 visa holders must present a valid DS-2019 or IAP-66.
• Refugee, asylee and parolee classifications must be accompanied by additional documentation and I-94 displaying immigration status and Alien Registration Number. • Exception: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) office verify legal status
and authorized length of stay.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL DRIVER LICENSE AND IDENTIFICATION CARD APPLICANTS
Acceptable Identification Documents List
Any person applying for a driver license (DL) or identification (ID) card is required to submit one primary document and one sec-ondary document from the following list. A primary document must contain the full name and date of birth and must be verifiable, (i.e., we must be able to contact the issuing agency to determine the authenticity of the document). Each applicant must provide his/her social security number, if eligible, two proofs of the applicant’s Delaware residency and non-U. S. Citizens must provide proof of legal presence in the United States.
NOTE: False statements, attempted fraud by displaying invalid licenses, ID cards or documents, or misrepresentation is perjury and may result in fines and denial of licenses and services. A driver license may be suspended any time false information is found on the signed application form. Please also refer to pages 14 for information on who is exempt and/or who may not be licensed.
PRIMARY DOCUMENTS SECONDARY DOCUMENTS
Photo driver license. All Primary Documents may be used as a secondary document State/province/territory issued photo ID card Driver license/ID card, expired more than one year Certified microfilm/copy of driver license or ID card Court order that does or contain the applicant’s date of birth Certified Driving Record/abstract to match photo
identification card or driver license
Certificate of birth (U.S. issued). Must be original Employer ID card or certified copy, have a raised seal and be issued
by the Bureau of Vital Statistics or State Board of Health
INS documents, as follow Health insurance card, i.e., Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Kaiser, HMO - Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-570 or N-578)
- Certificate of Citizenship (N-560, N-561, or N-645) - Northern Marina Card (I-551)
- American Indian Card (I-551)
- U.S. Citizen Identification Card (I-179 or I-197) - Resident Alien Card (I-151, I-551, AR-3, or AR-103) - Temporary Resident Identification Card (K-688) - Non-resident Alien Canadian Border Crossing Card
(I-185 or I-586)
- Record of Arrival and Departure (in a valid Foreign Passport) (I-94 or I-94W visa waiver program) - Record of Arrival and Departure w/attached photo
stamped “Temporary Proof of Lawful Permanent Resident” (I-94)
- Processed for I-551 stamp (in a valid Foreign Passport) - Permanent Resident Re-entry Permit (I-327) - Refugee Travel Document (I-571)
- Employment Authorization Card (I-688A, I-688B, I-766)
Canadian Immigration Record and Visa or Record of IRS/State tax form. W-2 NOT acceptable Landing (IMM 1000)
Court order. Must Contain full name, date of birth and Marriage certificate/license court seal. Examples include: adoption document,
name change document, gender document, etc. Does no include abstract of criminal or civil conviction.
United States Military ID Medical records from doctor/hospital Valid passport, U.S. If foreign, appropriate INS Military dependent ID
document also is required
Military discharge/separation papers Gun permit
Pilot license
School record/transcript. Must be certified Social Security card. Metal card is NOT acceptable Social insurance card (for Canadian residents only) Student ID Card. Must contain photo
Vehicle title, Vehicle registration NOT acceptable Welfare card.
Prison release document
(One Document For) (Two Documents For) NAME CHANGES SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, DELAWARE RESIDENCY
IF ELIGIBLE Must include applicant’s name and residential address
Social Security card or Ineligibility Utility bills Court Documents letter from Social Security Administration
Health/Social Services card Hospital insurance card Marriage Certificate Employee’s pay check stub Auto or Life Insurance policies Divorce Decree W-2 Form W-2 or filed Tax Forms
Tax Forms filed Voter registration card Military Discharge Certificate (DDForm 214) Bank account records Reapplication letter from SSA Credit card statements
Employment records DMV computer records
Graduated Driver License For First Time Applicants Under Age 18
The graduated driver license program is designed to reduce the high accident and fatality rate of minor drivers. Minors will receive additional supervised driving experience and reduced exposure to high-risk driving situations. The parent or sponsor will actively participate in training the minor and determining when the minor is capable of increased driving authority. For more information visit the DMV website at www.dmv.de.gov/.
Level One Learner’s Permit
Applicant’s eligibility requirements:
1. Must be at least 16 years old, and less than 18 years of age.
2. Must present a Delaware Driver Education Certificate (Blue Certificate) as proof that you passed a certified Delaware Driver Education Course. If you passed a course in another state, your out-of-state certificate must be approved by the Department of Education; this approval must be presented to the Division of Motor Vehicles. For approval send the cer-tificate to the Education Associate for Driver Education, Delaware Department of Education, 35 Commerce Way, Suite 1, Dover, Delaware, 19904; fax 302-739-1780; tele-phone 302-857-3338.
3. Must provide documentation proving the applicant’s name and date of birth, social security number if eligible, and two proofs of Delaware residency (unless the sponsor is a licensed Delaware driver and lives at the same address as the applicant). A list of approved docu-ments are contained in the Required Documentation Table in this chapter.
4. All minors’ driver license applications must be signed by a sponsor. The sponsor is held jointly liable with the minor for any damages resulting from the minor’s negligence. The sponsor has the final authority to determine if the minor is capable of handling the respon-sibility of operating a motor vehicle and the authority to designate who may supervise the minor driver. The sponsor may withdraw his/her endorsement at any time until the minor reaches age 18, thereby canceling the minor’s driving privileges. The following sponsors are listed in order of preference:
a. Either father or mother of the minor if both parents are living together within this State and the minor resides with both parents.
OR
-b. Father of the minor, if the father is living within this State, and the minor resides with the father only. Mother of the minor, if the mother is living within this State and the minor resides with the mother only. Father or mother, if the father or mother lives within this State, and the minor resides with neither parent, and the minor has no legal guardian within this State. (Note: Stepparents cannot act as a sponsor unless the minor is adopt-ed or appointadopt-ed the minor’s guardian.)
OR
-c. Legal guardian or court-appointed custodian of the minor, duly appointed as such under the laws of this State.
OR
-d. By any suitable person acceptable to the Secretary of Transportation or the Chief of Driver Services, (302) 744-2561.
e. The sponsor must sign the minor’s drivers license application in the presence of a Divi-sion licensing employee. However, the parent, guardian, or court-appointed custodian acting as a sponsor can have his/her signature notarized on the application and have it forwarded to the Division.
5. The applicant must pay $25.00 Class D license fee and pass an eye screening at the time of application.
6. Minors who require specialized evaluation, training or equipment to operate a motor vehi-cle because of a physical or mental disability will be identified by the driver education teach-er and tested by the Division.
Level One Learner’s Permit Restrictions:
1. Permit must be in the possession of the permit holder when driving a motor vehicle. 2. When the permit holder is under mandatory supervision, the supervisor must be a properly
licensed parent, guardian or licensed driver (approved by the sponsor) who is at least 25 years of age and has held a Class D license for at least 5 years. The supervising driver must be seated beside the permit holder in the front seat of the vehicle when it is in motion. No person other than the supervising driver can be in the front seat.
3. No permit holder may talk on a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle (unless permit holder has pulled over to the side of the road during an emergency situation).
4. For the first six months after issuance of a Level One Learner’s Permit, the permit holder may only drive when supervised. This is the mandatory supervision period.
5. After the first six months after issuance, the permit holder may drive: a. Unsupervised between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
b. The permit holder may drive between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. only when under supervision. Exception: The permit holder may travel without supervision during those hours when going directly to and from church activities, work activities, and the permit holder’s school (on school property only).
6. No passengers other than the adult supervisor and one or fewer other passengers may be in the vehicle during the first year. During the second six-month period of unsupervised driv-ing when a supervisor is not present, only one other passenger in addition to the driver may be in the vehicle. This passenger limit does not apply to immediate family members, pro-vided an adult supervisor is in the vehicle.
7. Persons who violate the Level One Learner’s Permit restrictions are considered as driving without a license which will result in a 2-month suspension for the first offense and a 4-month suspension for subsequent offenses.
Eligibility for a Class D Operator’s License
A permit holder who is at least 17 years old, but less than 18 years old, may obtain a Class D operator’s license when the driver has held a Level 1 Learner’s Permit for at least 12 months, the sponsor has not withdrawn his/her endorsement, and the applicant’s driving privileges are not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
Requirements For First-Time Applicants Over Age 18
Temporary Instruction Permit (Learner’s Permit)
The purpose of the learner’s permit is to enable you to drive the class of motor vehicle for which you want a driver license. Payment is due upon application and you must pass all test-ing within 60 days. The permit is issued after the eye screentest-ing and knowledge testtest-ing are passed. After you pass these tests and pay the required fee, a learner’s permit is issued for 60 days. While you are learning to drive you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is qualified to drive the class of vehicle in which you are training, and he/she must be at least 21 years of age.
issued. If you do not pass the road test within the 60-day period, you are permitted one extension of the learner’s permit for an additional 60 days, provided application is made and a second fee of $2.00 is paid before the original permit expiration date, otherwise your fee is forfeited.
Transfer Of Licenses From Other Jurisdictions Into Delaware
(18 Years of Age or Older)
Drivers From Other States. If you move into Delaware from another state, you must apply
for a Delaware driver license within 60 days after becoming a resident. You must turn in your previously issued out-of-state driver license, fill out an application and pass an eye screening. Written and road tests may be given, but they are normally waived if your license is valid. Suspended and revoked licenses cannot be transferred until the withdrawal action is cleared.
Drivers From Other Countries. Nonresident drivers over the age of 16 years who have a
valid driver license issued by their home country may operate motor vehicles upon the high-ways of this State when their license is in their immediate possession. Sixty days after the nonresident driver becomes a Delaware resident, he/she must apply for a Delaware driver license. Drivers from other countries may retain their foreign licenses. All drivers licensed in other countries must pass both the written and road test. Exception: Delaware has reciproc-ity agreements with Germany and France thereby exempting these drivers from the written and road tests.
Transfer Of Licenses From Other Jurisdictions Into Delaware
(Under 18 Years of Age)
Those persons who are at least 16 years old but less than 18 years old and were issued a driver license by another state must obtain a Delaware license within 60 days after becoming a Delaware resident.
a. The applicant must have completed an approved driver education course. The Department of Education will ensure out-of-state courses are equivalent to Delaware driver education requirements. (See Level One Learner’s Permit)
b. The applicant must pass a written and road examination conducted by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles and an eye screening.
c. The application must be signed by an approved sponsor.
d. If the minor applicant was issued an out-of-state license for over 12 months, he/she may be eligible for a Class D operator’s license.
e. If the minor applicant was issued an out-of-state license for less than 12 months, he/she may be eligible for a Level 1 Learner’s Permit.
License Renewal
Delaware licenses can be renewed at any Division of Motor Vehicles facility. Renewal reminders are mailed to each driver approximately 60 days before the expiration date (driver’s birthday). The renewal fee is $25.00 for a five-year license. A $1.15 late fee is charged if the renewal takes place after the expiration date. You must turn in your previously issued license, fill out an application and pass an eye-screening test. Written and road tests may be given, but they are normally waived. If you keep a motorcycle endorsement, the fee is increased by $8.00 ($33.00 total). You may renew at any time during the 90-day period prior to the expiration of your license. If you have moved, you may be required to show proof of residency.
Permanent License Renewal
In addition to the five-year driver license, the Division of Motor Vehicles has issued a per-manent driver license. Effective August 1, 2007, no more new perper-manent driver licenses shall be issued. If you already have a permanent license you must return to the Division every five years to renew the license. The fee for this is $15.00. Permanent license holders who have a motorcycle endorsement on their license will be charged an extra $8.00 fee for that endorse-ment. A $1.15 late fee will be assessed upon renewal if the permanent license has expired. Whenever a permanent license is suspended or revoked, it is changed to a Class D license upon reinstatement and will not be re-issued.
Exchange Student Licensing Procedures
After completing an approved driver education training program, an exchange student may apply for a Level One Learner’s Permit. The exchange student must present the following: 1. A typed notarized statement from his/her parent, granting permission for his/her son or
daughter to apply for and be issued a Delaware Level One Learner’s Permit.
2. If the applicant is under the age of 18, the sponsoring family must sign the application and assume liability for the minor driver.
3. A legal document showing the date of birth such as a certified birth certificate (in English) or a passport.
4. A social security number, if eligible.
5. Driver education training certificate, if under age 18. 6. $25.00 will be charged for a five-year license.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Restricted License
If you have a disability which would interfere with driving a motor vehicle safely, it may be possible through use of special equipment to compensate for your disability. Special exami-nations are required by the Division in such cases, and a license with restrictions may be issued to you allowing you to drive only when you, your vehicle, or both are fitted with the specified equipment. A common example of a restricted license is one which requires you to wear glasses when driving or to restrict you to daylight driving only. If you drive without the required equipment, you are subject to arrest and your driver license may be suspended.
Duplicate License
If your license is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may apply to the Division for a duplicate license which will be issued for a fee of $10.00. You must bring in three (3) identification doc-uments of which one must have your signature on it. (See Required Document Table.)
Name Change
Within 30 days after legally changing your name, you must personally go to an office of the Division of Motor Vehicles to change the name on your driver license. Prior to arriving at the Division, if you have not already done so, you should report to the Social Security office with identification and the official document(s) (e.g., court documents, divorce decree, marriage certificate, etc.) that caused your name to be legally changed to update their records. Please allow 72 hours after updating your information with the Social Security office before report-ing to the Division to change your name on your driver license or identification card. This time will allow the Division’s and the Social Security’s databases to be updated and match. Please also bring to the Division your old driver license and marriage certificate or court doc-ument as evidence of the name change. The Division will issue you a new license for $1.15. If you have any questions regarding this process, please call (302) 744-2506.
Address Change
After changing your Delaware address, you have thirty (30) days to notify both the Vehicle Registration and Driver License Sections of the Division of Motor Vehicles. Write to the Division of Motor Vehicles, Driver License Section, P.O. Box 698, Dover, Delaware 19903. Give us the number of your driver license, your name as it appears on the license and your new address. We will change our records. To change your license document, you must come into any of our facilities, and we will replace your license at no cost. (See the Vehicle Equip-ment, Titles, Registration and Insurance Section for changing the address on your vehicle reg-istration.)
Identification (ID) Card
The fee for an identification card is $20.00, and it expires 4 years from the applicant’s next birthday. The applicant must be a Delaware resident and present documents as required by the Required Documentation Table.
Voter Registration
As a result of the enactment of the National Voter Rights Act of 1993, any U.S. citizen resid-ing in the State of Delaware, who meets the eligibility requirements, is afforded the opportu-nity to register to vote while obtaining or renewing a driver license. You may register if you are a U.S. citizen; a permanent resident of the State of Delaware; at least 18 years old by the date of the next General Election; and are mentally competent. Ex-felons may register to vote if they meet the requirements as specified by law according to 15, Del. C Chapter 61. Part of the registration process involves selecting a political party of your choice. Options include the two majority parties, numerous minority parties or, if you do not wish to be affiliated with any political party, you may register as an Independent. Only members of a majority party (Democrats and Republicans) are eligible to vote in primary elections in the State of Dela-ware. In approximately one month, you will receive a polling card from your respective coun-ty elections office. This card confirms your registration and provides the name and address of the location where you will cast your vote on election day. If you have any questions or con-cerns, call the elections office nearest you. Thank you!
Commissioner of Elections
111 S. West Street, Suite 10 / Dover, DE 19904 (302) 739-4277
Department of Elections
New Castle County Kent County Sussex County
820 N. French St. - 4th Floor 100 Enterprise Place 119 N. Race St. Wilmington, DE 19801 Suite 5 Georgetown, DE 19947 (302) 577-3464 Dover, DE 19904 (302) 856-5367
Megan’s Law/Sex Offenders
By signing the driver license or identification card application form, applicants acknowledge that the Division of Motor Vehicles has notified them that registration in compliance with Section 4120 of Title 11, Delaware law, is mandatory for any person who has been convicted in any state of any offense which if committed or attempted in this State, would have been punishable as one or more of the offenses referenced in Section 4120(a) of Title 11, and that such registration must occur within 7 days of coming into any county, city, or town in which he/she temporarily resides or is domiciled for that length of time. The form will be perma-nently retained. There is a $5.00 fee to add the “Y” restriction.
Mandatory Disclosure Of Social Security Numbers
Disclosure of the applicant’s social security number is mandatory if eligible. Federal law authorizes such disclosure. See 42 U.S.C. Section 405(c)(2)(1). The Division will use social security numbers solely for the administration of the driver license program to ensure accu-rate identification. Social security numbers will not be released to businesses or private indi-viduals, but may be released to state agencies to carry out their governmental functions.
Selective Service System Registration
Male applicants are to understand that their signature on license or identification card appli-cations constitutes consent to be registered with the Selective Service System, if so required.
Organ And Tissue Donor Program
“GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE”
When you apply for, or renew a driver license in Delaware, you will be asked if you wish to be an Organ and Tissue Donor. If you say yes, the words “ORGAN DONOR”, will be
placed on your license. You will also be given a brochure containing information about your donation. In order to prevent confusion and misunderstandings upon your death, we suggest you also inform your family of your decision to be an organ and tissue donor. Once you have designated yourself as an Organ and Tissue Donor, this designation once you die, may not be revoked according to Delaware law. More nationwide information is available at
DRIVER LICENSE CLASSIFICATIONS
Class D Operator’s License
This class of license includes passenger cars, station wagons, pickup trucks, utility vehicles, and most panel trucks. This type and class of license is valid for any single motor vehicle, and a trailer, with gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) not greater than 26,000 pounds, designed to carry less than 16 passengers (including the driver), and not placarded for the purpose of transporting hazardous materials.
Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL)
There is a Delaware Commercial Driver Manual which covers the CDL requirements, CDL procedures, testing requirements, and the basic knowledge required to obtain a CDL license. The manual is available for no cost at any Division facility or can be downloaded from the DMV website at www.dmv.de.gov/.
The requirement for a CDL is waived when the driver is operating farm equipment, firefight-ing equipment, recreational vehicles, or military members operatfirefight-ing military vehicles, includ-ing the National Guard.
Non-CDL Class A and Non-CDL Class B licenses are issued to those drivers who operate farm, firefighting equipment, and other authorized emergency vehicles under this waiver. No special licenses are required when operating personal recreation vehicles and military equip-ment. The following defines these waived class of vehicles:
a. Farm Vehicles which are:
1. Controlled and operated by a farmer;
2. Used to transport either agricultural products, farm machinery, farm supplies or both to or from a farm;
3. Not used in the operations of a common or contract motor carrier; 4. Used within 150 miles of the person’s farm and
5. Not used for hire.
b. Firefighting equipment which is:
1. Used by any fire company in this State for the preservation of life or property or the execution of emergency governmental functions.
2. Being operated under the authorization of a fire company for parades, special events, repair service, delivery or other such authorized movements.
c. Military equipment owned by the Department of Defense, including the National Guard, when operated by persons on active military duty or members of the reserves and National Guard on active full-time or part-time duty.
d. Recreational vehicles or trailers defined in Title 21 which provide temporary living quarters and are used solely for recreational purposes.
e. Emergency Mobile Communication Units operated in relation to a County Emergency Communication Center, the State Police, or any municipality.
f. Any other emergency vehicle, as defined by Title 21, used in the preservation of life or property or in the execution of emergency governmental functions.
CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (Learner’s Permit)
After passing the knowledge tests and paying a $5.00 fee, you may be issued a CDL learner’s permit which will allow you to drive a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV), but only with another licensed CDL driver. You may only drive the class of vehicle specified on your learner’s permit, and you may drive only with a CDL driver qualified in the same type CMV. This permit is valid for six (6) months. You may extend this learner’s permit one time for another six (6) months, for $2.00.
CDL Class A License
This license is required when the vehicle’s combination registered, actual or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is over 26,000 pounds, and the vehicle is towing a vehicle with a reg-istered, actual or GVWR over 10,000 pounds.
CDL Class B License
This license is required when the vehicle’s registered, actual or rated weight (GVWR) is over 26,000 pounds, and it is not towing another vehicle over 10,000 pounds GVWR.
CDL Class C License
This license is required for vehicles under 26,000 pounds when vehicles are designed to trans-port 16 or more persons, including the driver, or for vehicles required to be placarded for carrying hazardous materials (HAZMAT).
NON - CDL Class A License
Required for the same CMV vehicles as the CDL Class A license, but only when operating farm, firefighting vehicles, and other authorized emergency vehicles under a CDL waiver.
NON - CDL Class B License
Required for the same CMV vehicles as the CDL Class B license, but only when operating farm, firefighting vehicles, and other authorized emergency vehicles under a CDL waiver.
Driver Education Learner’s Permit
This permit authorizes the holder to operate those vehicles that a holder of a Class D opera-tor’s license may operate.
Level 1 Learner’s Permit
Authorizes the holder to operate those vehicles that a holder of a Class D operator’s license may operate, but under restrictions defined in the Graduated Driver License program.
Temporary License
When temporarily out-of-state, a temporary license may be issued to the holder of a valid Class D operator’s license or commercial driver license to extend the expiration date, to replace a lost license or in lieu of the Class D or CDL licensing document, as long as the driver license or commercial driver license holder is not suspended, revoked, disqualified, cancelled, or denied in this state or any other state. A temporary license or temporary instruc-tion permit may be issued to an unlicensed driver for specialized training.
Conditional, Occupational, and Hardship Licenses
These licenses grant limited driving privileges under very specific parts of Delaware law. The limited driving privileges granted are defined on the license.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Endorsement/License
Authorizes the holder to operate a vehicle with full Class D operators driving privileges only when the vehicle is equipped with an ignition interlock device.
ENDORSEMENTS
Motorcycle Endorsement
Any person who operates a motorcycle, motorbike, other 2-wheeled motor-driven vehicle, or 3-wheeled vehicle having less than 3 feet of distance between the adjacent wheels on the high-way shall have a driver license with a motorcycle endorsement. Persons over the age of 18 must pass a written examination and road skills test to obtain a motorcycle endorsement. The
written and road test examinations are waived for those who complete the approved Motorcycle Rider Education Program. This endorsement costs $8.00, and it is valid for the same period as the license.
Persons under the age of 18 must have the motorcycle application signed by their parents or the duly-appointed legal guardian. They must complete the Motorcycle Rider Education Program as approved by the Division.
The Division publishes a Delaware Motorcycle Operator Manual which covers the requiments for the motorcycle endorsement, procedures to acquire the endorsement, testing re-quirements, and the basic knowledge needed to obtain this endorsement.
Motorcycle Rider Classes
New Castle County Kent County Sussex County 302-326-5030 (New Castle) 302-744-2658 302-853-1030
Call for further information or to register for classes.
Motorcycle Learner Permits
Motorcycle permits are valid for 60 days. You can extend the permit only once for an addi-tional 60 days. You must apply for an extension at DMV before the expiration date and pay a $2.00 fee. The following restrictions apply when operating a motorcycle with a temporary instruction permit.
1. No passengers shall be allowed on the motorcycle.
2. Operating a motorcycle between sunset and sunrise is prohibited. 3. Approved safety helmet and eye protection must be worn.
4. Operation is not permitted on the federal interstate highway system.
School Bus Endorsement
To drive a school bus, the driver must have a CDL with a passenger and school bus endorse-ment. To obtain a school bus endorsement, drivers must not have had their licenses suspended, revoked, or disqualified in this state or in any other jurisdiction for moving violations in the last five years, and not have more than 5 points (full point value) on their records for the past 3 years. They must pass written tests, a 12 hour classroom course, 6 hours of training aboard a school bus, a medical exam, and a criminal background check; as well as pass DMV skills and road testing in a school bus, and a DMV written school bus test. The Delaware Department of Education provides the training and authorization for this endorsement. Contact your local School District Transportation Supervisor or the State Supervisor of School Transportation at (302)-739-4696 for further information.
Taxi Endorsement
All persons who operate a taxi cab on Delaware highways must have a valid license with a taxi endorsement. The driver must complete a Defensive Driving Course, be at least 18 years of age, provide a certified copy of a police background check indicating no serious criminal offenses, not have had his/her license revoked for the past five years, and pass the eye screen-ing and written tests. The fee for this endorsement is $3.45.
(Stop) (Yield) (School)
(Stop) (Prepare to stop) (Proceed with caution)
(Keep to right) (No U-turn) (No right turn)
THE DRIVER EXAMINATION
The purpose of the driver examination is to determine whether you have sufficient knowledge and driving skills necessary to drive safely on Delaware highways. The examination consists of four parts.
Vision Screening
Your vision will be screened to determine whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If the screening shows that you need glasses or contact lenses, your license certificate will be marked to indicate that you cannot drive legally without them. Minimum acceptable vision for a Delaware driver license is 20/40, with or without glasses or contact lenses. Permission for daylight only driving may be granted if your vision is between 20/40 and 20/50. CDL physical and vision requirements are contained in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Part 391.41).
Highway Sign And Signal Test
You will be asked to identify certain highway signs only by their shape, color, or the symbols appearing on them. You will also have to explain the meaning of these and other highway signs, traffic signals, and pavement markings. The meanings are explained in the Rules of the Road section of this manual.
For example, you may be asked to identify these or other shapes without their labels:
You may be asked to identify the type of signals associated with these or other colors:
Rules Of The Road Test
You will be asked to answer a series of questions on the Delaware road rules (motor vehicle laws and safety practices). For example, you might be asked what the speed limit is for auto-mobiles on two-lane roads; what actions are taken when you see a flashing red signal ahead; or under what conditions you should not pass another vehicle. You might also be asked what you should do if your vehicle starts to skid, or how far away from a fire hydrant you may legally park.
Road Test
You are eligible to take a Class D or motorcycle road test 10 days after you pass the rules test. Road tests are given on every weekday, except Wednesday, from 8:00 until 11:30 and 1:30 until 3:30. Contact the facility where you obtained your permit for road test information. They will not be conducted during inclement weather (rain, fog, snow, and ice). Again, the Division does not conduct road tests on Wednesdays. To take the Class D test you must bring: • Valid vehicle registration card and valid insurance card for the vehicle that you will drive
during the test;
• Driver license of the driver who came with you; and • Your learner’s permit.
You will be required to drive for approximately 30 minutes and do such things as are usual in normal driving. You will not be asked to do anything that is contrary to the motor vehicle laws or safe driving practices. No tricks will be played on you. Instead, you will be asked to show that you know how to do such things as the following:
• Operate vehicle equipment • Respond to road signs, traffic signals • Parallel parking and pavement markings
• Three point turn • Make right and left turns • Change lanes • Use right-of-way rules • Maintain proper speed • Back 50 feet
• Merge with traffic • Follow and overtake vehicles • Enter intersections • Be overtaken
• Inspect vehicle for safety • Know vehicle controls
Motor Vehicle To Be Driven During Road Test
It is your responsibility to provide the motor vehicle to be driven during the road test. It must be properly registered and pass our safety inspection. If the vehicle is registered out of state, you must provide proof of registration and insurance. If the vehicle is registered in Delaware, you will be required to show proof of liability insurance. Furthermore, the vehicle must be within the license class for which you have applied. The examiner will conduct a basic vehi-cle safety inspection before the road test begins. Please refrain from smoking during the test. No cell phone use or playing of music is permitted during the road test. The New Castle Inspection Lane does not conduct motorcycle road tests.
When You Must Be Accompanied By A Licensed Driver
Unless you already have a legal right to drive in Delaware, you must come to the road test accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 years of age, as described for the learner’s permit. A licensed driver should remain to drive the vehicle away in case you fail to pass the tests.
